Philippe Labro, the eminent French journalist, author, filmmaker, and songwriter, who offered a profound portrayal of France through his versatile work, passed away in Paris on Monday at the age of 88. Diagnosed with brain lymphoma in April, his death was confirmed by his long-time assistant, Anne Boy.
A perennial seeker of truth and narratives, Labro embodied the essence of continuous exploration with his trusted notebook always in hand. In a heartfelt homage to him, President Emmanuel Macron reflected on Labro’s contributions to conveying "our popular, French, and universal history," documenting a wide spectrum of cultural events from Algeria to America, and engaging with figures ranging from Herman Melville to French rock legend Johnny Hallyday.
Labro's expansive oeuvre includes 24 books—both fictional and non-fictional—seven films, popular song lyrics, and numerous television and radio productions, all of which delved into life's intricate mysteries. He believed that true insight resided in the interplay between fact and fiction, leading him to traverse various mediums without feeling bound to any specific one. He famously likened life to a "dance to a mysterious tune," capturing the ethereal quality of existence that fascinated him throughout his career.
Notably, Labro rose to fame in the United States as the first French journalist to arrive at the scene following President John F. Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963. His keen observational skills and relentless quest for understanding have cemented his place in the annals of French literature and journalism, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations.
